Isaan golf courses
saan, located in northeastern Thailand, offers a unique golf experience away from the bustling hubs like Bangkok. Specifically, the Khon Kaen region stands out with its selection of golf courses and charm.
Khon Kaen may not boast the sheer number of golf courses found in other parts of Thailand, but it features four notable 18-hole courses and several 9-hole options that provide a diverse golfing experience. The best time to visit is during the dry season from January to February and November to December. However, for budget-conscious golfers, the rainy season from May to September offers reduced rates and occasional showers that typically last less than an hour.
Here’s a closer look at Khon Kaen's top golf courses:
-
Singha Park Khon Kaen Golf Club: This course is renowned for its challenging design and abundant water hazards. It promises a memorable round with its striking clubhouse and intricate course layout that tests even experienced golfers.
-
Dancoon Golf Club: Situated on the outskirts of Khon Kaen city, Dancoon was the first course in the Isaan region tailored for tourists. It features wide fairways, strategic bunkers, and subtly undulating greens, making it a versatile choice for golfers of all levels.
-
Victory Park Golf & Country Club: Designed by James Vaughn, Victory Park utilizes its natural landscape effectively. Though it may not have the most modern clubhouse, the straightforward course provides an enjoyable round for players, making it a worthwhile visit.
-
Urbonrat Golf Course: This shorter, parkland-style course offers a mix of hole designs and challenges. While not the most difficult course in Thailand, its excellent maintenance and low green fees make it an attractive option for visiting golfers.
Although Khon Kaen does not have the extensive number of high-end resort courses found in other Thai regions, its charm lies in its developing tourism and picturesque countryside. The area is gradually building its reputation and promises future additions to its golf offerings.
In summary, Khon Kaen's golf scene provides a refreshing alternative to Thailand's more famous golfing destinations, with its own set of unique and enjoyable courses. For those seeking a blend of quality golf and local charm, Khon Kaen is well worth a visit.
The facilities are very much geared towards the local golfer rather than the visiting tourist, with a small clubhouse offering basic amenities and restaurant services. Located 17 kilometres from Nong Khai off Friendship Highway the course lies close to the Thai/Laos border, which makes it popular with tourists from Laos given its proximity.
Located in the province of Khon Kaen, some 400 kilometres from the Thai capital of Bangkok, the golf course has been built on what was a waste area for the Singha beer brewery, as the area became unsuitable for purpose, the owners quickly turned the land into truly remarkable golf course.
Established in 2008 it was arguable the first course built to cater for the increasing number of golf tourists visiting the area looking for a more “rustic” approach to golf and to get away from the busier courses of the Bangkok region.